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arXiv · 2203.02773

The Physics and Metaphysics of Pure Shape Dynamics

Antonio Vassallo·Pedro Naranjo·Tim Koslowski
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Abstract

The goal of this essay is twofold. First, it provides a quick look at the foundations of modern relational mechanics by tracing its development from Julian Barbour and Bruno Bertotti's original ideas until present-day's pure shape dynamics. Secondly, it discusses the most appropriate metaphysics for pure shape dynamics, showing that relationalism is more of a nuanced thesis rather than an elusive one. The chapter ends with a brief assessment of the prospects of pure shape dynamics in light of quantum physics.

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Antonio Vassallo, Pedro Naranjo, Tim Koslowski. 2022-03-05. The Physics and Metaphysics of Pure Shape Dynamics. https://arxiv.org/abs/2203.02773

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